SustFest21 comes to St Albans

A two-week festival inspiring sustainable living returns to St Albans this weekend.

Now in its fifth year, SustFest 21 (23^rd May – 6^th June) aims to raise awareness on how we can help protect the planet.

The event features over 100 COVID-safe activities organised by local businesses, community and faith groups.

It will begin and end with two Sustainable Markets held in conjunction with St Albans Business Improvement District (BID).

More than 50 traders are set to gather along St Peter’s Street on Sunday (23^rd May) selling ethical fashion, natural beauty products and vegan food.

The markets will also showcase stalls from a number of community organisations and charities.

One sustainable fashion brand participating in both dates is Twenty Outfits. Owner, Eliza Lau-Johnston said:

“The fashion industry has a disastrous impact on the environment, it is the second largest polluter in the world. Why buy new when there are so many amazing preloved pieces circulating out there!  

“We source and rebrand preloved and vintage clothes so it's easy to look effortlessly stylish, individual whilst doing your bit for the planet.”

Join in with some of the 100+ events of St Albans District Sustainability Festival - 23 May to 6 June. Full programme at https://t.co/OcYRFw9UBi. 💚🕷️🥦🚲🐞🌳🌻
With thanks to @TNLComFund , @OctopusEV & @StAlbans_BID pic.twitter.com/OD7h1gV9qS

— Sustainability Festival (@Sustfestexpo) May 11, 2021

A video promoting this year’s Sustainability Festival in St Albans. Credit: SustFest21.

First launched in 2015, the festival is co-ordinated by volunteers from the charity Sustainable St Albans, and St Albans Friends of the Earth group.

This year there is a particular emphasis on physical and mental health, with people encouraged to get closer to nature.

Local residents will have the chance to take part in online activities, and attend outdoor events - all in a COVID-secure way.

On 29^th May people can discover local wildlife by booking a guided walk to see butterflies in Heartwood Forest.

A family scavenger hunt will also be held at Harpenden Common during the half term break. 

Individuals may also organise their own “Climate Conversations” with family and friends.

The two hour sessions are designed to get people thinking about the environment.

Materials are available to download in order to start a discussion, or you can book a Climate Conversation with a facilitator.

St Albans Sustainable Markets take place on Sunday 23^rd May and Sunday 6^th June between 11am- 4pm. 

A full list of events can be found on the SustFest21 website.